In essence, “Clign” by Anthony Stan is a sort of “test condition” card change. In the effect, a deck is held vertically on its side on the palm of the hand. A card, perpendicular to the deck, juts out from the side. The magician waves their hand in front of the card and it instantly changes. The change looks fantastic.
Based on the packaging and the appearance of the change, I was expecting some sort of gimmick, which it does include. But calling it a “gimmick” is quite an overstatement. While the effect can’t be done with just a deck of cards, the gimmick can be made in seconds with an extra card. Which leads me to my first complaint. Even with the gimmicks, I feel $17 is a bit much for this release. Yes, the gimmicks are made from non-standard cards, but they are likely cards most magicians will have in their magic drawer. Releasing this as a download for $10 would have been more appropriate.
“Clign” comes with 4 gimmicks, each of which broadens the number of effects possible with the method. The 52 minute tutorial video covers the basic change of one card to another, plus another 8 routines (as well as several bonus ideas.) The highlights included a transposition, a pretty, two phase color changing deck routine, a cigarette through card effect and a moving ink routine. It should also be mentioned that in addition to the gimmick, some basic sleight of hand is required to get into position, and the change itself may be a bit knacky to make consistent.
The method is very simple, yet creates a visual, magical effect. And for what might seem like an effect destined for social media, the method is quite practical and feasible for use in the real world. However, while several of the routines showcase the change effectively, many of them utilize it as part of an overwrought, heavy handed, and poorly constructed method. Yet again, my suspicion is that the effects were created solely to demonstrate additional uses for the gimmick in order to justify a higher price. That being said, if you like the appearance of the change, and are willing to put some work into refining the handling, several of the effects are lovely and strong, and the principle is flexible and worth exploring. I think the main question to ask is how to justify the strange positioning of the card before the change. In the tips section he does mention justifying the position as making the card “sleight of hand” proof, which is an excellent idea.
At $17, you aren’t going to break the bank with this purchase. I do feel it’s a little overpriced, but if you like the appearance of the change, there are several good routines taught, and there is a lot of potential for personal creativity.
Available at your favorite Murphy’s Magic dealer
Product info for Clign (Gimmicks and Online Instructions)
Author: Anthony Stan Publisher: Magic Smile Productions Average Rating: (2) Retail Price: $16.95 Buy Now
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